In a newly released autobiography, named Ithaki, the former prime minister Tsipras spares no criticism while he revisits that chaotic period of Greece's economic turmoil.
An Unconventional Choice
According to Tsipras's recollections, he appointed the maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis as his finance minister mainly due to the latter's worldwide fame along with Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities when it came to speaker.
“He was, truthfully, more of a personality rather than an economist,” wrote the 51-year-old.
Clashing Priorities
Tsipras suggests that Varoufakis had his own motives which included advancing Varoufakis's books and testing out his own game theories using the nation instead of truly fighting for its economic stability.
He noted how those negotiations to avoid insolvency were “not just a method to secure improved terms for Greece. They became an experiment, a monumental opportunity to prove the validity of his ideas.”
High-Stakes Talks
Amid tense discussions, the country came dangerously on the brink of exiting the eurozone.
On the line lay not only the country's destiny but also those punishing austerity measures demanded in exchange for bailout funds by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Options
Efforts to find funds from other sources, including a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting the indebted country was tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin reportedly told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, those punitive conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action that plunged Europe into deeper crisis of identity.
Although the vote was carried decisively by those against austerity, the prime minister had little option but to reject its outcome then agree to a rescue deal with foreign lenders which turned out to be more severe.
Breaking Point
Tsipras revealed that he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the public image of the talks, the figure who drew media attention, who appeared on the covers of publications globally … he gave the impression he relished the spotlight.”
After Varoufakis proposed a backup strategy that included establishing a secondary currency and issuing coupons to retirees, the leader said he realised that it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Criticism
In the book, Tsipras concludes that Varoufakis had proved himself to be “unsuitable for a deal demanding complex and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras further claimed how his aggressive approach left him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, while helped hawks that were advocating Grexit.
The retelling of history has been met with anger along with shock in some quarters, whereas the former minister has maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
